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with Jon Dawson

Monthly Archives: August 2012

Median existing single-family home prices are rising in more metropolitan areas, but a lack of inventory – notably in lower price ranges – is limiting buyer choices in an increasing number of markets around the country, according to the latest quarter

Median existing single-family home prices are rising in more metropolitan areas, but a lack of inventory – notably in lower price ranges – is limiting buyer choices in an increasing number of markets around the country, according to the latest quarterly report by the National Association of Realtors®.

The median existing single-family home price rose in 110 out of 147 metropolitan statistical areas 1 (MSAs) based on closings in the second quarter in comparison with same quarter in 2011; three areas were unchanged and 34 had price declines. In the first quarter of 2012 there were 74 areas showing price gains from a year earlier, while in the second quarter of 2011 only 41 metros were up.

A separate breakout of income requirements to buy a home on a metro basis shows a wide range of conditions, but most buyers had ample income in the second quarter assuming they could meet mortgage credit standards.

Lawrence Yun, National Association of Realtors chief economist, said home prices are set to rise in even more markets during upcoming quarters. The national median existing single-family home price was $181,500 in the second quarter, up 7.3 percent from $169,100 in the second quarter of 2011. This is the strongest year-over-year increase since the first quarter of 2006.

Single family home sales, including condos, increased statewide in July 6.6% over July of last year. Last July 1112 homes sold statewide with an average sale price of $215,900, this July 1188 homes sold with an average sale price of $215,500.

Single family home sales, including condos, increased statewide in July 6.6% over July of last year. Last July 1112 homes sold statewide with an average sale price of $215,900, this July 1188 homes sold with an average sale price of $215,500.

Penobscot County unit sales were up by 3.4% for July of this year with dollar volume up 6.2% compared with the same month last year. Sales year to date for the County increased 5.9% compared with the same period last year with the average sale price increasing 3% tot $148,200.

State wide, year to date average home sales prices decreased to $210,900 but the number of homes sold increased 16% compared to the same period last year.

Record low mortgage interest rates continue to attract the attention of many buyers who find buying more affordable than renting.